Liquid applicator and dispensing means

ABSTRACT

A liquid dispensing and applicator tool primarily for use in applying Glaze or Resist liquids to ceramics renderings such as tiles, figurines, and the like. The tool is adaptable to many other fields where controlled dispensing of oils, chemicals, laboratory test samples and so forth is a requirement. The tool is configured into various shapes and sizes to fit the needs of the user in the ceramics and other fields and screws onto plastic squeeze and other bottle tips whether or not such tips are threaded. It can be attached and detached from the same bottle with out sacrificing sealing properties. Tools are color or mechanically coded for rapid identification of size and purpose. The tool simplifies and standardizes such liquid applications and gives the worker an unobstructed view of the work during the liquid application process.

BACKGROUND

[0001] 1. Field of Invention

[0002] This invention relates to methods used in processing and application of ceramic glazes and resist formula to ceramic tiles, figurines and other products in the ceramics industry as well as the application of paints, adhesives and other fluid treatments to other surfaces and objects in a myriad of other fields of endeavor. A further extension could include lubricating mediums and medical treatments that require application of various liquids to very limited access areas of the subject whether human or non-human. One could easily include the dispensing of various chemical and/or experimental biology formulations to test tubes or microscope slides in laboratories. In other words, there are countless applications where this invention could play useful roles within only the limits of one's imagination.

[0003] Although this invention was conceived for use in processing ceramic tile, it's expanded adaptation to other controlled dispensing applications is obviously boundless by it's very nature.

[0004] General Background

[0005] Since there is an almost unlimited number of fields to which this invention could apply, in the interest of brevity, only a select one or two fields need be discussed in order for anyone skilled in the art to evaluate this invention and relate it to many other fields.

[0006] There have been many attempts to arrive at a controlled application of ceramic glazes, paints and resist and especially a method that is consistently repeatable from one work period to another. Such repeatability of method becomes more urgent when making duplicate copies of a product where even a novice could detect dissimilarities in quality. And this problem is magnified in direct proportion to the degree of fine detail inherent in the product. To deal with such problems, it is not uncommon for ceramic workers and artists to use special tools and unorthodox applicators to perform their tasks. Such tools include brushes, sprays, powered feeds, syringes and a varied number of other applicators both commercial and improvised; and the fields involved can be printing, engineering, chemistry, physics and others. However, as stated previously, this discussion will be primarily limited to ceramics where artistic skills are generally a requisite for most efforts if fine detail, product quality, wide variety and colorful results are to be consistent

[0007] Especially in ceramics work, notably picturesque tiles, the art of applying a multitude of colorful glazes before firing can be problematic without proper tools. But, before applying the glaze, it is necessary to outline the detailed design with a resist material which is formulated to prevent migration of the glaze colors across the detail lines which define the design. Duplicating designs can be tediously performed by hand or by a widely accepted silk-screening process. However, hand application of resist can be utilized when silk-screening is not appropriate or readily available and when touch-up corrections are required. This invention can be readily adapted to aplication of resist as well as glaze liquids merely by modifying and/or eliminating some radii in the tube portion, changing tube diameter and/or the over-all length of the applicator.

[0008] The inventor, who is skilled in the art of ceramics, recognized the need for a more useful tool that would and does fill the needs of amateur as well as professional artists, skilled ceramics workers and dedicated hobbyists. The current reference invention clearly fills those needs.

[0009] 2. Prior Art and Current Solutions

[0010] For every problem there are generally many real and perceived solutions that accrue over time. Those solutions vary from practical to unworkable and must be individually evaluated to weed out those that may be more of a hindrance than a benefit to the various skilled levels of ceramics artists and workers.

[0011] Todays technology in the plastics industry results in a host of plastic bottles and other containers, syringes and various container caps many of which have integral feeding tubes. Others utilize special caps that accommodate attachable-detachable accessory components to direct a forced flow of liquid from the companion supply container. Other metal, plastic or composite material caps are designed to mate with peristaltic or other liquid pumping machines. However, the operator has limited control over the liquid dispensed since the art of application is innappropriate or inadequate for artistic work and may also have limited versatility. Consequently, the limited methods of transporting the liquid from a container to the work surface generally result in gross inefficiencies in the operators efforts along with creating problems of purging and/or cleansing the transporting component when changing from one color to another or changing liquid types. Sealing the supply container after use is another factor that must be considered.

[0012] Another older applicator was composed of a soft rubber bulb or syringe type container connected to a long metal or glass tube which extended from the discharge portion of the container. Although the bulb or syringe type was perhaps an improvement over methods existing at the time, it passed by the wayside and out of favor for various reasons. The impracticality of that type of product will be discussed in the Description Of Invention portion of this application.

[0013] No relevant prior art patents are cited in this disclosure.

[0014] Therefore, the need exists for a new and improved liquid applicator/dispenser that adequately and reliably benefits ceramics artists as well as other users.

CONCLUSIONS

[0015] The conclusion to be reached is that none of the methods mentioned teaches the art of the Janine Waldbaum invention and generally are irrelevant to this application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In accordance with the present invention, a new, novel and useful tool is disclosed which, by its design and configuration, overcomes the objections listed above and enables artists or other ceramics designers and workers to precisely dispense resist and glaze liquids to their ceramic products and renderings. The advantages carry over into many other fields completely unrelated to ceramics but which share some of the same problems. It serves to compliment the skilled as well as novice users abilities as well as affords a versatile teaching tool for those professionals who instruct students in the art of ceramics and other select professions.

[0017] THEREFORE;

[0018] One object of this invention is to provide a teaching tool that will shorten a students learning time to become proficient in the art.

[0019] Another object of this invention is to provide a tool to skilled and novice ceramics workers that will simplify their work tasks.

[0020] A further object of this invention is to improve the quality of ceramics products while at the same time reduce the stress inherent in fine detail renderings.

[0021] Yet another object of this invention is to reduce labor time involved in color and type of liquid changes as well as clean-up efforts.

[0022] Still another object of this invention is to markedly reduce or eliminate reject products that result from use of inefficient tools and the methods relating to such use.

[0023] A further object of this invention is to provide day to day and week to week consistency in a users application of the liquid materials related to the users profession.

[0024] A related object of this invention is to prevent spillage of liquids as well as to provide easy sealing and storage of unused liquids to prevent contamination and deterioration.

[0025] The foregoing and other objects of the present invention, as well as the invention itself, may be more fully understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying photo illustrations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS

[0026] Print #1 illustrates the following:

[0027] 1. Various physical sizes of the liquid applicator.

[0028] 2. Three different sizes of plastic squeeze bottles having “Yorker” tips.

[0029] 3. Snap-on closures for the bottles.

[0030] 4. Two fitting-to-bottle assemblies.

[0031] 5. Tube section of applicator prior to assembly with fitting.

[0032] 6. Internally threaded fittings.

[0033] 7. Snap-on closure in assembly with bottle.

[0034] 8. Various radii of tube portion of applicator.

[0035] 9. Various color coding and preferred location thereof.

[0036] 10. Internal threads of fittings.

[0037] 11. Position of radial identification grooves if used. (due to size, not visible on photo).

[0038] 12. Two tube portion and fitting assemblies unmounted on bottles.

DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0039] Please note the enclosed color photo which will illustrate the various aspects and profiles of this invention. Reference will be made to this photograph as the invention is explained and it is descriptive to the extent that someone skilled in the art could duplicate and/or manufacture the product. This photo is being included, instead of drawings, in the description of this invention. In this case, color photos are possibly more illustrative than drawings and will adequately serve to explain the basis of the novelty inherent in this invention.

[0040] This invention is unique in that the inventor envisioned an application to the ceramics field wherein an artist or production worker would derive a far more controlled application of ceramic glazes and/or resist to tiles and other renderings especially when designs contain extremely fine detail. In fact the intricacy of design and pictuesque illustrations in tile production and other phases of ceramics is only limited by the artists ability and imagination both of which rely on proper tools in the final effort. Consequently, more precise liquid applicators can only enhance the quality of the final product. Additionally, there is the factor of worker fatigue and possible physical impairment to hands and wrists from constant repetition of the liquid application processes. In a general way, such processes involve plastic squeeze bottles, delicate brush strokes or other effort where hand, finger and wrist movements comprise the majority of the physical actions that take place in the decorating and finishing phases prior to firing in kilns. As in many other industries, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome becomes a distinct possibility which can leave an artist or other workers deprived of some of the skills necessary for their profession.

[0041] This emphasis on use of the invention in the ceramics field does not diminish it's use and application in other fields where those skilled in the art can easily understand and relate to the inherent features of this novel product.

[0042] Although the enclosed Photo Illustrations indicate a curvilinear profile of the tube 28 component, this can be classified as only one of many other shapes possible. All radii are calculated to be equal to or greater than the minimum possible so as to prevent cross-sectional deformation of the tube which would have an adverse effect on liquid flow.

[0043] The inventor selected the curvilinear shapes as representative for those applicators used in the application of glaze liquids with extensions and/or changes of such profiles as mey be necessary for applications of resist and other liquid materials. Variations in tube internal diameter are also directly related to the liquid flow and must be modified as demanded by the viscosity of the type liquid involved.

[0044] Attempts were made as early as the 1920's to produce a universal liquid application tool with the discharge tube made of metal or glass and, in one case, attached to a rather large and bulky rubber bulb or syringe. And, although some advantage may have derived from such a product, the disadvantages were too numerous to make it a practical solution. The limited tubing technology would have precluded wide tubing variations, choices of materials, internal tubing smoothness and acceptable tube-to-bulb attachment methods. The system did not lend itself to practical manufacturing methods. Besides being awkward to manipulate, the rubber bulb would offer severe purging problems as well as limited flow control of the liquid and would certainly require hand and finger pressures that would be highly fatiguing. In short, such a product could only be classified as impractical and, as a result, was not a viable solution.

[0045] Inventor Waldbaum designed the radii 10 and 12, along with the associated tube sizes so that, when changing from one applicator size to another, the user will experience little or no difference in effort required and will therefore benefit from improved control of the process. In other words, an artist or worker can become accustomed to effort required for a level of detail and still change applicator sizes without sacrificing control of liquid flow from disal end (5) of the applicator. Even though the resistance to liquid flow is directly proportional to mean tube 28 length, a calculated moderation in internal tube 28 diameter can result in similar flow through various tube 28 sizes which are calculated for various liquid viscosities but similar pressure on the squeeze bottles 22 that are attachable-detachable auxiliary components used in the process as the liquid supply containers. Such plastic squeeze bottles 22 in various sizes, are readily available as standard products and are complimentary to the threaded fitting 16 of the invention if they are selected from manufacturers who supply the industry with the type containing what is commonly called a “Yorker” tip 18. Such tips readily accept the fitting 16 which was designed with internal thread diameters and courseness 30 ideal for such attachable-detachable use on “Yorker” tipped squeeze bottles 22. This is a new and novel use of such squeeze bottles when combined with the tube 28 and fitting 16 components of this invention. The “Yorker” type bottle tips 18 and their companion snap-on caps 24 provide another valuable function since they combine to serve as air-tight closures for bottles containing unused liquids. It is a simple matter to unscrew fitting 16 from the tip 18 and snap the cap 24 on the bottle 22 with no messy spills and no loss of valuable time to save and conserve the remaining liquid for future use. In manufacture, the tube 28 end opposite distal end 14 is inserted into a properly sized opening in the tapered end 32 of fitting 16 where it is bonded with adhesive or other means to form an intergral combination with tube 28. The fitting 16 is internally machined or formed to permit through-put of liquid from the internally threaded end 30 into the rigidly attached tube 28 for discharge from distal end 14.

[0046] It is to be noted that there are no threads on the tip 18 which requires that the threads 30 in fitting 16 must pressure form or cut threads on the tip 18 when the fitting 16 is literally screwed onto the non threaded tip 18. It is preferred that the threads in fitting 16 be distinct enough to form mating threads but not sharp enough to actually cut threads in the tip 18. However, this is not a mandatory prereqisite since cut threads in tip 18 will generally permit many attachable-detachable matings with fitting 16 before requiring replacement at a very low cost per unit. In any case, the assembly 34 creates a semi-permanent combination which is leak-proof and allows a simple squeeze on the bottle 22 to force liquid out of the distal end 14 and onto the work surface in a very controllable amount and to a very select area.

[0047] It is important to note that the act of screwing fitting 16 on tip 18 does not affect the attachment of cap 24 on said tip 18 whether or not the threads are actually cut or just formed into the tip 18 when fitting 16 is screwed in place. The density of plastic in the tip 18 and the number of fitting 16 attach-detach operations will generally determine the degree of threading that occurs on the tip 18. However, that is of little concern since the bottle 22 can be easily sealed for storage in any case by applying the snap-on cap 24 and the tip 18 will accept a fitting 16 with or without permanent threads. This means that an operator can have a ready supply of resist and/or required glaze colors in numerous bottles and can merely remove the caps 24 to attach an applicator of choice as desired. Upon removing an applicator from a bottle, it is a simple matter to purge the applicator of the last used liquid by attaching same to another bottle containing cleaning solution or water as requirement dictates and merely squeezing the bottle to force the cleaning solution through the applicator to effect purging.

[0048] The materials applicable to manufacture this invention can be selected from a list including glass, plastic, brass, cold rolled steel, stainless steel and others including titanium, ceramics, nickel or any other materials that can be processed to produce the shapes and forms which will function as called for in this invention. However, the inventor prefers machinable and formable grades of stainless steel to produce the tubing 28, stainless steel or brass for the fitting 16 and low to medium density polyethylene or polypropylene for the bottles 29. It is incumbent upon the manufacturer to use materials that are generally readily available and that are impervious to the various materials and liquids consistent with the ceramics industry. Recent innovations in tube making also results in availability of stainless tubing in nearly unlimited sizes and which have highly polished interior walls which are ideal for this invention.

[0049] Although the inventor prefers squeeze bottles that have a brand name “Yorker” tip, there are other bottle types that are adaptable for use with this invention. It remains that the best features of the “Yorker” tips may be available in other type bottles and could be interchangeable with the preferred type and would justify some consideration.

[0050] Since users of this invention invariably change colors and types of liquids many times during the course of a day, it is a constant identity problem in selection of the various tube sizes and especially so since changes in the inside diameters are not so pronounced as to make the differences visually obvious. In fact, some users are simply unable to make a selection based upon their visibility level. Therefore, a very universal and perceptible identification means is part of this invention and covers two different methods. One is a series of dimples or grooves 26 machined into the wall of the fitting 16 adjacent to the threaded portion 30 and a second more basic method is to add color coding 36 to the tube 28 just above the tapered end of fitting 16 one easily applied by adding a colored sleeve that is very visible to the worker. In this last method, preferred by the inventor, each tube type or size is assigned a certain basic and highly visible color easily identified by a worker. The dimple or groove 26 method which identifies tube type by the number of such grooves, can be difficult to observe due to the small size of and area covered by the grooves or dimples. Therefore, color coding is preferred.

[0051] Any type of visible coding enables the artist or worker to quickly change applicators with very little effort and no lost time. Since the worker can readily select a shorter of longer applicator to increase or decrease the amount of reach necessary, tube size identification is an added advantage and materially enhances the errgonomic value and worker acceptance of this invention over prior art.

SUMMARY

[0052] The above describes an invention which is a useful, novel and efficient alternative to current liquid application means. It is engineered and ergonomically designed to blend with and enhance the users skills and offers controlled application of liquids at levels not otherwise available to the ceramics and other fields.

[0053] The following condensed series of statements is a reprise of the more detailed DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION outlined above:

[0054] The subject invention contains a tube portion, which can have a curvilinear profile or a mulitple thereof, in combination with an internally threaded fitting whose purpose is to attach-detach to and from a liquid supply container which is preferably a plastic squeeze bottle. Squeezing said bottle with the hand and/or thumb and fingers forces the container contents into the fitting and through the tube where it exits from the tube distal end in a controlled manner onto the ceramic tile or other work piece surface. Such fitting portion can alternatively connect to other liquid supply sources including various types of pumps. Although not as practical as internal threads, the fitting could be configured with the same internal profile as the snap-on caps so that they could be snapped onto bottle tips the same as snap-on caps.

[0055] Further, the invention results in a commercial product that is economical, very rugged, available in various useful sizes, is coded for rapid visual size identification and can be readily manufactured with today's available technology.

[0056] Additionally, this invention has been carefully structured to require a reduced and reasonably constant operator effort regardless of applicator size change for each level of skill and liquid level flow compatible with the required precision of detail encountered.

[0057] Other notable features include it's configuration which is structured to permit a more relaxed orientation of applicator to work surface and is supplied in various models to coincide with the “reach” required for the various shapes and layouts of the work pieces as well as to afford an unobstructed view of the work in progress.

[0058] Another characteristic of the invention is the highly polished internal walls of the tube portion which reduces liquid-to-surface frictional impediment to the flow and therefore minimizes the pressure effort required to force the working liquids through the tube. However, the internal tube radii and capillary attraction, in conjunction with the standard air pressure at the distal or discharge end, prevents unwarranted dripping of even low viscosity liquids from the tube when the applicator is attached to a bottle tip for use.

[0059] While the principles of the invention have now been made clear in the illustrated embodiment, there will be immediately obvious to those skilled in the art, that there could be many modifications of structure, arrangements, proportions, the elements, material and components used in the practice of the invention, and otherwise, which are particularly adapted for specific environments and operation requirements without departing from those principles. The appended claims are therefore intended to cover and embrace any such modifications within the limits only of the true spirit and scope of the invention.

[0060] Drawing Reference Numerals Worksheet Part Name Part Name 10 Tube Radii 1 12 Tube Radii 2 14 Distal End of Tube 16 Threaded Fitting 18 Yorker Tip 20 — 22 Yorker Tipped Squeeze Bottle 24 Snap-on Cap 26 I.D. Grooves On Fitting 28 Tube Portion 30 Internal Threads or Snap-On Cap Configuration 32 Tapered End of Fitting 34 Fitting & Tip Assembly 36 Color Coding 

I claim the following:
 1. In a liquid applicator and dispensing means comprising: a) an internally polished tube portion. b) a first supply end c) a second distal discharge end. d) a combination of straight and/or curved configurations. e) a first supply end attachment-detachment fitting means. f) a visual tube size identification means.
 2. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said tube diameters are pre-selected for compatibility with the various liquids used.
 3. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said tube portions are of formable material adequate for containing and dispensing low pressure liquids.
 4. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said straight and/or curved portions may be in combinations of one or more of each.
 5. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said configurations are of predetermined radii and length to permit liquid flow therethrough in a controlled manner.
 6. The applicator of claim 1 wherein all dimensions preselected prevent unwanted dripping of liquids from said distal discharge end.
 7. The applicator of claim 5 wherein internal said tube friction and capillary attraction are normalized to equate with pressure in said tube when in use.
 8. The applicator of claim 7 wherein liquid flow pressure required is relatively stable for various said applicator physical size and said tube sizes.
 9. The applicator if claim 1 wherein said termination fitting means is of a predetermined shape and size having internal threads on one first end.
 10. The applicator of claim 9 wherein said internal threads are compatible with mating bottle tip or other liquid supply source threads but will pressure form threads for attachment-detachment to select and unthreaded squeeze bottle tips.
 11. The applicator of claim 1 wherein said termination fitting is internally formed or machined with one or more positive annular rings comparable with standard bottle snap-on caps.
 12. The applicator of claim 11 wherein said internal rings are compatible with and permit snap-on attachment-detachment to select bottle tips instead of a said threaded engagement.
 13. The applicator of claim 1 wherein one second end of said termination fitting is configured to accept, internally, said supply end of said tube size of choice.
 14. The applicator of claim 13 wherein said supply end of said tube is inserted into said second end of said termination fitting and permanently bonded thereto by adhesive or other means.
 15. The applicator of claim 1 whereby said applicator said tube size is visually identified by adding relating colors to said tube portions, in the form of paint, slip on colored plastic shrink or other tubing, or other means. Alternate coding means can be machined marks on outer surface of said termination fittings. In either case, the coding identifies said applicator sizes when said tube sizes are not evident visually. 